Ravens FS Reed: 'I'll be playing next year'

By DAVID GINSBURG | January 24, 2013 | 3:32 PM EST

FILE - In this Nov. 18, 2012, file photo, Baltimore Ravens free safety Ed Reed runs after recovering a fumble by Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace during the first quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh. Matt Birk dragged his bulky knees and aching body back to play another season for one reason: to get to the Super Bowl. At long last, Birk, Reed and several other veterans on the Ravens get the chance to play in football's biggest game. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)

"I'll be playing next year," Reed said Thursday before Baltimore hit the practice field in preparation for their Feb. 3 Super Bowl matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.

There was speculation that the 34-year-old Reed might retire after this season.

Earlier this month, in announcing his intention to step down after the playoffs, Lewis spoke of taking a "last ride."

To which Reed said Thursday: "No, it's not my last ride. I just bought a bike."

Now in his 11th season, Reed hasn't missed a start since 2010, when he sat out Baltimore's first six games with a hip injury. This season, he was one of only two players on the Ravens defense (along with cornerback Cary Williams) to start in all 16 games.

Reed has been selected to play in nine Pro Bowls, including each one since 2006.

Reed's 61 career interceptions are a franchise record, and he has an NFL-record 1,541 yards in interception returns.

"There's no other man like Ed Reed," Ravens defensive end Arthur Jones said. "He's passionate and he's such a hard worker. That guy helps me out, and he's a safety. He understands the game at every position."

This season, Reed made 58 tackles and intercepted four passes, taking one back 34 yards for a touchdown. He also recovered three fumbles.

In the playoffs, he has 10 tackles while serving as the last line of defense for a unit that last week dominated New England in the AFC championship game.

Reed will be playing in his first Super Bowl, and it's in his home state of Louisiana.

"It's amazing to be going back to New Orleans," he said. "I'm so grateful."